Thank you for selecting the KSM series from Shure.
Over 90 years of audio experience has contributed to making this one of the finest microphones available.
If you have any questions not answered in this guide, please contact Shure Applications Engineering at 847-600-8440, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, CST. In Europe, call 49-7262-92490. In Asia, call 852-2893-4290. Our web address is www.shure.com.
The Shure® KSM32 is a premium, side-address, condenser microphone with a cardioid polar pattern engineered for highly critical studio recording and live sound productions. With an extremely flat, extended frequency response, the KSM32 provides transparent reproduction of the original sound source. A 15 dB attenuation switch allows the KSM32 to handle the high sound pressure levels (SPL) associated with drums, percussion, and ensembles, while the 3 position low cut filter helps counteract stage vibrations or proximity effect.
The KSM32/SL has a champagne-colored finish and comes with the following accessories:
The KSM32/CG has a non-reflective, charcoal-gray finish for situations where less microphone visibility is preferred, such as live sound and stage production. It comes with the following accessories:
Note: Sound quality is strongly affected by microphone location and room acoustics. To achieve the best overall sound for a particular application, it may be necessary to experiment with microphone placement and room treatments.
This microphone requires phantom power and performs best with a 48 Vdc supply (IEC-61938). However, it will operate with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity with supplies as low as 11 Vdc.
Most modern mixers provide phantom power. You must use a balanced microphone cable: XLR-to-XLR or XLR-to-TRS.
Use the supplied ShureLock® rubber suspension mount to secure the microphone to a floor or boom stand.
Important: Thread the knurled locking ring securely to the base of the microphone. Do not overtighten.
Position the front of the microphone, with SHURE®, towards the desired sound source. Position the rear of the microphone, with the vintage circle S logo, towards any unwanted sound sources.
A three-position switch on the back of the microphone lets you adjust the low-frequency response. Use the low-frequency filter to reduce wind noise, room noise, or proximity effect.
The attenuation switch lets you reduce the signal level without altering the frequency response. This can prevent extremely loud sounds from overloading the microphone circuitry.
0 dB For "quiet" to "normal" sound levels.
-15 dB For use with extremely loud sound sources such as drums, horns, or loud guitar cabinets.
Maximum SPL capability, output clipping level, and dynamic range vary with the input load impedance of the preamplifier to which you connect the microphone. Shure recommends a minimum input load impedance of 1000 Ω. Most modern microphone preamplifiers meet this requirement. Higher impedance results in better performance for these specifications.
The microphone grille consists of 3 separate mesh layers that act as an integral pop filter. This helps reduce wind and breath noise. Depending on the performer, an external pop-protection screen or windscreen may be necessary when close-miking vocalists.
Electret Condenser
Cardioid
20 to 20,000 Hz
150 Ω
open circuit voltage, @ 1 kHz, typical
–36 dBV/Pa[1] (16.0 mV)
1 kHz at 1% THD[2]
PAD ON | 2500 Ω load | 154 dB |
1000 Ω load | 148 dB | |
PAD OFF | 2500 Ω load | 139 dB |
1000 Ω load | 133 dB |
81 dB
@ 1 kHz
2500 Ω load | 126 dB |
1000 Ω load | 119 dB |
20 Hz to 20 kHz, 1% THD
2500 Ω load | 9.0 dBV |
1000 Ω load | 3.0 dBV |
equivalent SPL, A-weighted, typical
13.0 dB SPL-A
20 to 20,000 kHz
≥50 dB
0, -15 dB
Flat, –6 dB/octave below 115 Hz, or –18 dB/octave below 80 Hz
Three-pin professional audio (XLR), male, balanced
Positive pressure on diaphragm produces positive voltage on pin 2 with respect to pin 3
11–52 V DC[4] phantom power (IEC-61938), 4.7 mA
490 g (17 oz.)
[1] 1 Pa=94 dB SPL
[2]THD of microphone preamplifier when applied input signal level is equivalent to cartridge output at specified SPL
[3]S/N ratio is the difference between 94 dB SPL and equivalent SPL of self noise, A-weighted
[4]All specifications measured with a 48 Vdc phantom power supply. The microphone operates at lower voltages, but with slightly decreased headroom and sensitivity.
Typical Frequency Response
Typical Polar Patterns
Overall Dimensions
ShureLock Champagne Swivel Adapter |
A44M |
Carrying Case |
AK32C |
Protective Velveteen Pouch |
A44VB |
ShureLock Elastic-Suspension Shock Mount for KSM32 Models |
A32SM |
Black Foam Windscreen for BETA 27, KSM27, KSM32, KSM42, KSM44, KSM44A, PG27, PG42 and SM27 |
A32WS |
Padded Zippered Carrying Bag for KSM32 |
A32ZB |
Popper Stopper® Pop Filter with Metal Gooseneck and Microphone Stand Clamp |
PS-6 |
Suspension Shock Mount Elastic Cord, Champagne (contains one) |
95B2125 |
This product meets the Essential Requirements of all relevant European directives and is eligible for CE marking.
The CE Declaration of Conformity can be obtained from: www.shure.com/europe/compliance
Authorized European representative:
Shure Europe GmbH
Headquarters Europe, Middle East & Africa
Department: EMEA Approval
Jakob-Dieffenbacher-Str. 12
75031 Eppingen, Germany
Phone: 49-7262-92 49 0
Fax: 49-7262-92 49 11 4
Email: info@shure.de
Trademark Notices: The circular S logo, the stylized Shure logo, and the word, “Shure” are registered trademarks of Shure Incorporated in the United States. “SHOCKSTOPPER” is a trademark of Shure Incorporated in the United States. “Mylar” is a registered trademark of E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company in the United States. These marks may be registered in other jurisdictions.
Patent Notice: Patent Des. 400, 540